Selective aqueous-phase hydrogenation of furfural to cyclopentanol over Ni-based catalyst under mild conditions

A series of carbon nanotube (CNT)-supported Ni-based catalysts were prepared through a simple impregnation method. The synthesized Ni-based bimetallic catalysts exhibited much smaller particle size and better dispersion than monometallic Ni/CNT catalyst. Owing to the synergistic effect of Ni with Mo, the material was especially active to hydrogenation of biomass derivatives in aqueous medium. Promotional effect was observed in NiMo/CNT catalyst during hydrogenation of furfural to fine chemicals, including cyclopentanone/cyclopentanol, which is of profound practical values for processing biomass degradation and may be applied in the food and biomass refining industry.